rough lock

[ ruhf lok ]

noun

1. a chain, rope, braking shoe, etc., that on a downward slope keeps a wheel from turning, a log from rolling, or a runner from moving; a downhill brake:

   The steep terrain put a harsh strain on the rough lock, but the mules were patient and we got that wagon down all in one piece.

Word History and Origins

Origin of rough lock¹

First recorded in 1855–60

Example Sentences

They groped along to the door of the bank shanty, and began fumbling with their wire picks at the rough lock.

From Project Gutenberg

He had a lot of trouble getting his wagon to his claim, but by judicious driving and the liberal use of a log-chain for a rough lock, he managed to land the whole outfit in the little flat before the cabin without any mishap.

From Project Gutenberg

Such a packing box is easily made into a cupboard, and it is not difficult to improvise shelves, hinges, or even a rough lock for the camp larder.

From Project Gutenberg

The lock was old and little used, as the gate was placed rather to prevent children and others going down to the water than for any other purpose, and the Arabs had found little difficulty in picking the rough lock.

From Project Gutenberg

Silas took out an old "wallet" as he called his pocket-book, and produced from an inner fold a bit of brown paper, in which was a rough lock of white horse-hair.

From Project Gutenberg